A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went

John C. Maxwell.

Renovating your 3-room resale flat doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. At MRD Interior Design, I know the value of creating a cozy and stylish urban home design without overspending. In this article, I’ll share eight mesmerizing ideas for a 3-room HDB renovation that blend affordability, practicality, and comfort home interior—all tailored for those who want the best without spending a fortune. Let’s dive in and explore how you can transform your space with the perfect mix of creativity and a budget estimate that fits.

Understanding Budget-Friendly Renovation

How Much Does a 3-Room HDB Flat Cost?

Learn more about budgeting for your renovation

The cost of a 3-room HDB flat in Singapore can vary depending on several factors, including location, flat type (new or resale), and market conditions. Typically, a 3-room resale flat in Singapore can range between SGD 300,000 to SGD 450,000, depending on the region. It’s crucial to factor in renovation costs on top of the purchase price, which can range from SGD 20,000 to SGD 50,000 or more, depending on the extent of the renovation work you plan.

How Big is a 3-Room HDB Flat?

Explore how to maximize space in your HDB flat

A 3-room HDB flat in Singapore generally offers around 60 to 70 square meters of space. This size includes two bedrooms, a living/dining area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. While it may seem compact, smart design choices and effective use of space can make a significant difference. MRD Interior Design focuses on maximizing every square meter to ensure your flat feels spacious, comfortable, and functional.

How Long Does it Take to Renovate a 3-Room HDB?

Renovating a 3-room HDB flat typically takes about 6 to 10 weeks, depending on the scope of work, such as whether it includes kitchen or bathroom renovations, design complexity, and contractor availability. Common challenges like delays in material supply or unforeseen structural issues can also impact the timeline.

Renovation Stage	Estimated Duration
Planning & Design	1 – 2 weeks
Hacking & Demolition	1 week
Electrical & Plumbing Works	1 – 2 weeks
Carpentry & Flooring Installation	2 – 3 weeks
Painting & Final Touches	1 – 2 weeks
Total Estimated Time	6 – 10 weeks

Idea 1: Open Concept Layout

Discover more about open concept designs

One of the most effective ways to create a spacious and modern feel in a 3-room HDB is to embrace an open concept layout. By removing non-load-bearing walls, I can help you maximize your living area and let natural light flow through the space. Fewer partitions also mean lower home renovation costs—a perfect way to stretch that renovation budget. An open concept layout also promotes better ventilation, allows more flexibility in furniture arrangement, and makes the entire flat feel larger—ideal for compact spaces in Singapore. With MRD’s approach, you’ll see how an open layout can transform your HDB flat into a welcoming, airy urban home design while staying within budget.

Idea 2: Multi-Functional Furniture

Check out space-saving furniture ideas

Another smart way to keep your renovation cost-effective is by using multi-functional furniture. Investing in pieces like a sofa bed, an extendable dining table, or even storage beds can save you both space and money. Other examples of smart furniture include wall-mounted foldable desks, ottomans with hidden storage, and Murphy beds that can be tucked away when not in use. These items are great for a 3-room resale flat because they help maximize every inch of your home. MRD frequently recommends smart furniture solutions to our clients, allowing them to balance comfort home interior with a budget estimate that doesn’t stretch the limits.

Idea 3: Paint and Lighting for an Instant Makeover

Get inspired by paint and lighting tips

If you want to give your 3-room HDB a fresh look without major renovations, paint and lighting are your best friends. A coat of neutral paint can refresh the entire home while adding an accent wall can provide character and warmth. Coupled with budget-friendly LED lighting, you can achieve a cozy and inviting atmosphere that elevates the entire space. At MRD, I often advise clients that a good mix of lighting and the right colors can redefine the comfort of their bedroom and living areas without hefty renovation costs.

Idea 4: Vinyl Flooring

Learn about flooring options for your HDB

When it comes to flooring options that don’t break the bank, vinyl flooring is an excellent choice. It’s affordable, easy to install, and comes in many different styles that can mimic more expensive materials like hardwood. For those renovating a 3-room resale flat, vinyl flooring can help achieve a chic look without the high price tag. I’ve found that quality vinyl is also durable enough to handle daily wear, making it a smart choice for HDB flat renovations on a budget. Additionally, vinyl flooring is water-resistant, making it suitable for areas like the kitchen and bathroom, and it is comfortable underfoot, which is great for families with young children or elderly members.

However, there are some cons to consider. Vinyl flooring can be prone to scratches and dents, especially if heavy furniture is dragged across it. It is also not as environmentally friendly as other flooring options since it is made from synthetic materials. Over time, vinyl can fade if exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, and it may not add as much value to your home as more premium flooring options.

Idea 5: Open Shelving for Kitchens

Discover kitchen design inspirations

Kitchen cabinets can be a major expense in any renovation project, but there’s a stylish alternative—open shelving. This is a cost-effective way to give your kitchen an airy feel while also showcasing your favorite dishes or decor pieces. I’ve worked with many clients at MRD who find that open shelving not only saves on renovation costs but also makes their kitchens more practical and appealing. Keeping things decluttered is key here, and it’s something I always recommend to help maintain that chic, urban home design.

Idea 6: Refurbishing Existing Furniture

Explore refurbishment ideas

Refurbishing existing furniture is one of the most budget-friendly approaches to transforming your 3-room HDB. Giving your old furniture a fresh coat of paint or reupholstering it can breathe new life into your living space while saving a lot on renovation costs. I always encourage my clients to consider refurbishing as a sustainable and personalized way to elevate the comfort home interior of their resale flats. It’s about adding your personal touch to make the space truly yours.

Idea 7: Feature Wall with Wallpapers

Find the perfect wallpaper for your HDB

Creating a feature wall is a fantastic way to add character to your 3-room resale flat without spending a fortune. Wallpaper offers an affordable option compared to more intricate wall paneling or tiling. There are countless designs available, making it easy to find something that fits your style and budget. I often recommend wallpapers to those looking for an instant transformation at a budget estimate that keeps renovation costs manageable.

Idea 8: Greenery and Indoor Plants

Learn how to add greenery to your home

Nothing adds a touch of life to your home quite like greenery. Adding indoor plants is a cost-effective way to enhance the ambiance of your 3-room HDB without significant spending. Vertical gardens or small potted plants are great options for compact spaces. They not only add a natural vibe to your urban home design but also boost mental well-being. I’ve worked with MRD clients to find the perfect plants that fit their renovation budget while maximizing the space in their living rooms and bedrooms.

Which of these budget-friendly renovation ideas resonates with you for your 3-room HDB? Let MRD help you turn these concepts into reality and create the comfort home interior you’ve always dreamed of.